What is the secret ingredient in soup?

The ranch seasoning packet is what really makes this buffalo chicken soup special! It adds layers of herb and garlic flavor that complement the buffalo sauce perfectly, creating depth that plain buffalo sauce alone can't achieve.

Is buffalo chicken hot or spicy?

This soup has a moderate heat level that most people find pleasantly warming rather than mouth-searing. The cream cheese mellows the Frank's Red Hot considerably, so even those sensitive to spice can usually enjoy it. You can constantly adjust the heat up or down to your preference.

Is chicken soup really healthy?

This buffalo chicken soup provides excellent protein from the chicken, plus vitamins from the vegetables. While it's richer than traditional chicken soup due to the cream cheese, it's still a nutritious meal that includes lean protein, vegetables, and can easily fit into a balanced diet.

What to eat with buffalo chicken soup?

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or even simple crackers for dipping. For a complete meal, serve it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. The cooling crunch of celery sticks on the side makes a fun nod to traditional buffalo wings.

Hearty Buffalo Chicken Soup You'll Crave

Description

A hearty, satisfying soup that tastes like comfort in a bowl, with all the bold flavors of buffalo wings transformed into the perfect warming meal. This recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen with simple ingredients and foolproof techniques.

Ingredients

Scale

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp butter
½ medium onion, chopped
2 sticks celery, chopped small
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped small
1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 (1-oz) packet ranch seasoning
4 cups chicken broth
¼ cup Frank’s Red Hot Original Sauce
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: crumbled blue cheese, chopped scallions

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Instructions

Start the flavor base. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 7 minutes until tender and fragrant.
Build the soup foundation. Stir in flour and ranch seasoning. Gradually add chicken broth and Frank’s Red Hot, whisking to combine.
Cook the chicken. Add whole chicken breasts to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and cook for 12 minutes, flipping chicken halfway if needed.
Create the creamy base. Remove chicken to a cutting board. Add softened cream cheese to the soup and stir until melted and smooth. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Finish and season. Return chicken to the pot. Cook for a few more minutes if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with blue cheese and scallions, or stir blue cheese into the soup for extra flavor.

Notes

About the chicken: 1.5 lbs is about 2 large breasts. You can also use 6 small thighs (cook 15 minutes instead of 12).
Cream cheese tip: Soften cream cheese well before adding for the smoothest texture.
Heat level: As written, it’s moderately spicy. Add extra Frank’s at the end or serve more on the side for added heat.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 340kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 1533mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.1g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 119mg